Philip M. Epstein Award for Excellence in Family Law - 2026

In 2024, the Philip M. Epstein Award for Excellence in Family Law was established by his family in his memory and honour.  The Award includes a $10,000 cash (non-taxable) prize. 

The Award is open for nominations every two years for a family law lawyer in Canada who has made significant contributions to any of the following during their legal career:

(a)               The advancement of family law in their jurisdiction and/or across Canada;

(b)               Family law education for the bar and bench in their jurisdiction and/or across Canada;

(c)               Improvements to the access to justice through pro bono and public service, including public interest litigation, in relation to family law-related matters;

(d)               Mentoring of and encouraging professional development of family lawyers and/or law students;

(e)               Fostering, by example and otherwise, civility and collegiality within the practice of family law and the family law bar;

(f)                Education of the public, law students, lawyers, and the judiciary about family law;

(g)               Excellence and distinction in family law litigation and/or dispute resolution in family law; and

(h)               Initiation and pursuit of law reform related to the field of family law. 

We invite nominations of lawyers from across Canada.  Please see the Terms of PME Award for the Nomination process.

Philip was a superlative colleague, advocate, mentor and teacher. He meant so much to so many, and this is our way of recognizing his legacy and contribution to family law on the fifth anniversary of his passing.